A father is a male parent. Your father is the man who helped bring you into the world and, in most families, plays a central role in raising you, teaching you, and helping you become who you are.

Fathers show up in countless ways. Some fathers teach their children to ride bikes, help with homework, or coach their sports teams. Others share their love of music, cooking, building things, or exploring nature. A father might be the one who enforces rules, offers encouragement before a big test, or simply listens when you need to talk. Every father brings something different to his family.

The word father can also mean to create or start something important. Scientists talk about the “father of modern physics,” or historians might call George Washington the “father of his country.” In this sense, to father an idea or movement means to bring it into being and nurture its growth, much like a parent does with a child.